Husqvarna is a Swedish company that makes and sells lawn and yard equipment throughout the world. Most are medium-grade or better and they have a wide support system for repairs. The Husqvarna GTH26K54 is a good example of their product line and its value as applied to garden tractors.

The GTH26K54 is powered by a 26-hp Kohler Courage 726 cc two-cycle engine that is a popular choice for residential garden/yard tractors. It combines a proven design that should see many years of service with the power needed to handle jobs bigger than just cutting the grass. This engine can easily manage residential cultivators and other ground-engaging attachments as well as pull a utility cart with typical yard loads. The hydrostatic (automatic) transmission is a good match up with the engine and it also offers cruise control. Large 23-inch rear wheels and 16-inch front wheels give the GTH26K54 sufficient ground clearance for most jobs. The front axle is cast iron for strength. A front bumper helps protect the axle and engine cover.

Back to its primary task: mowing. The 54-inch mower deck is the right size for lawns up to about 3 acres. However, with an 18-inch turning radius it isn't any more nimble than most other garden tractors. The deck has anti-scalping wheels and rollers to keep the blades from digging in to the grass over uneven ground. Under the deck are three belt-driven cutting blades; grass is discharged out the side chute as with most other lawn and garden mowers. Blades are engaged and disengaged using an electric PTO switch. Cutting height is adjustable from 1-1/2 to 4 inches with six-position spring-assisted adjustment.

The fuel tank holds 4 gallons, which is filled at the left fender. A well-marked fuel gauge can be easily seen from the seat. Speaking of the seat, it has a high -- 15-inch -- back and is wider than some models so it is made for a little more comfort.

In addition to standard headlights, the GTH26K54 also has red rear reflectors. Many similar garden tractors use only reflective tape to mark the rear edges. We like the design and quality of this new model. We also like its value, priced at less than $3000. If you want a solid garden tractor for large lawns and large jobs around the home, but don't mind the standard 18-inch turning radius, the GTH26K54 is a good choice.


Pros: Solid engine and transmission, well built
Cons: 18-inch turning radius

Warranty
2 years, limited